Comparing Corneal Biomechanic Changes between Solo Cataract Surgery and Microhook Ab Interno Trabeculotomy

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Biomechanics
• Surgical Outcomes

Background:

• Cataract surgery and microhook ab interno trabeculotomy (LOT) are common ophthalmic procedures.
• Understanding their impact on corneal biomechanics is crucial for patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare postoperative changes in corneal biomechanical properties between cataract surgery and LOT.
• To evaluate the effect of each surgery on corneal stiffness and deformation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case-control study comparing 37 eyes (cataract surgery) and 37 eyes (LOT).
• Groups matched for preoperative intraocular pressure, axial length, and age.
• Corneal biomechanical parameters (SP-A1, SSI, PD, DefAmpMax) measured using Corvis ST preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in Stiffness Parameter A1 (SP-A1) between groups.
• LOT group showed significantly larger Peak Distance (PD) and Deflection Amplitude Max (DefAmpMax) postoperatively.
• LOT group exhibited a significantly smaller Stress-Strain Index (SSI) postoperatively compared to the cataract group.

Conclusions:

• LOT is associated with reduced corneal stiffness.
• LOT leads to increased corneal deformation compared to cataract surgery.
• These findings highlight distinct biomechanical effects of LOT and cataract surgery.